RBC Design Thinking Program

As the world of work faces unprecedented change and uncertainty, graduating students are called upon to be equipped with the skills of tomorrow. The RBC Design Thinking Program at Western University provides space for Western students to gain critical skills for thriving in the workplace, building a better and brighter future, and creating innovative solutions in an increasingly challenging world. In addition to supporting students with building design thinking and related technical skills, the RBC Design Thinking Program (DTP) will give students a platform to work through ethical and social issues using design thinking frameworks and tools.   

This program typically selects candidates from third year students of any program at Western or affiliate colleges (excluding HBA1) or fourth year double degree students. Participants have the opportunity to learn design thinking and technical skills and apply them to a real-world challenge. The program’s focus is on AI and emerging areas of technology where students will work in teams on a challenge, studying design thinking and related technical skills. While connecting with RBC designers and technologists, as well as Western faculty mentors in a tutorial setting, you’ll have the chance to enhance your academic studies in this exciting co-curricular program.  

Please note that eligibility requirements have been updated: Students are ineligible to participate in the RBC Design Thinking Program if:

--They have not successfully completed all requirements for the first and second years of their primary program.

--They are in their final year of study.

--They have previously participated in the RBC Design Thinking Program.

Students who are admitted into and successfully participate in the program will receive a $3,500 CAD stipend.  

The RBC Design Thinking Program is a co-curricular program that will be delivered in person during the fall term. 

PROGRAM INFORMATION - FALL 2026 TERM 

The application period is now open. The application deadline has extended until Wednesday, July 22. 

Students admitted into the program must be able to attend all sessions including:

  • Tuesdays 5:00-7:00pm during the fall term (Tuesday, September 15-Tuesday, December 1, excluding fall reading week)
  • Saturday, September 19 from 10:00am-4:00pm
  • Saturday, November 7 from 10:00am-4:00pm
  • Additional mutually agreed upon meetings and working sessions

Questions? Contact the program team: dtprogram@uwo.ca 

Apply now



For more details about how to apply, visit the Application Information section.